How to Help Your Child Use Make Ten for Addition—Without Taking Over

Make ten helps a child regroup two parts into a friendly group of ten and an amount left over. The total does not change; only the grouping changes.

Use a visible practice model

For a practice example such as 8 + 6, ask what 8 needs to make 10. Let the child move that amount from the other group, then explain what is left. The example is a model, not a substitute for the child’s assigned problem.

Use prompts, not answers

Ask, “What does this number need to make 10?” and “What did you move?” Let the child write and check the matching equation after they see the regrouping with objects or a sketch.

Choose the representation that helps

Make ten is one useful strategy, not the only one. Follow the child’s classroom method, use a ten-frame or smaller example when needed, and ask the teacher about an unfamiliar expectation.

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